Five Canadian Universities Make the Top 100 in the GS World University Rankings

University rankings are ubiquitous, and though many doubt their accuracy, they are still a top indicator of educational standards. Quacquarelli Symonds is a U.K.-based company and a leader in education studies and publications. Since 2004, their world university rankings have been a leading source of a university’s academic quality.

The GS World University Rankings published this week show that this year, five Canada universities have made it into the top 100. The University of Toronto has maintained its position as the top university in Canada, at number 20 on the world rankings. Right behind Toronto at number 21 is McGill University. The University of British Columbia follows at number 43, and the Université de Montréal made 83rd with the University of Alberta right behind at 84th.

It is pleasing to see that almost all Canadian schools on the list improved their standing from previous years. Big changes include the Université de Montréal jumping from 92nd last year to 83rd, and the University of Alberta going from 96th to 84th. Despite being the top school in Canada, the University of Toronto dropped from its place at number 17 last year. Traditionally, McGill has been recognized by such lists as the top university in Canada. Last year was the first time UofT surpassed McGill on the GS Ranking. According to McLean’s Canadian university rankings however, McGill is still on top.